India is experiencing a concerning decline in sunshine hours, a trend directly linked to the nation’s escalating air pollution crisis. Over the past three decades, research indicates a consistent reduction in the duration and intensity of sunlight reaching the Earth’s surface across most of the country.
This dimming effect is primarily caused by a combination of increased cloud cover and a high concentration of aerosols – tiny particles from sources like vehicle exhaust, industrial emissions, and agricultural burning. These airborne particles scatter and absorb sunlight, a phenomenon that has been steadily worsening since the 1990s due to rapid industrialization and urbanization.
A recent study highlights that while monsoon clouds contribute to reduced sunlight during the June-July period, the persistent issue of aerosols significantly impacts sunshine hours throughout the year, particularly during the winter months. Scientists note that even on days with clear skies, hazy conditions can diffuse sunlight, lowering its intensity and affecting its measurable duration.
The consequences of this ‘sunshine deficit’ are far-reaching. It poses a significant challenge to India’s ambitious solar energy targets, as reduced sunlight directly impacts the efficiency and output of solar power generation. The study estimates that air pollution alone can decrease solar panel efficiency by up to 41%, leading to substantial economic losses.
Beyond energy, the diminished sunlight also affects agriculture, leading to significant crop yield losses, especially for staples like rice and wheat in the most polluted regions. This situation is not unique to India, as studies show similar trends in other heavily polluted parts of the world, such as Europe and China, where air quality improvements have been linked to an increase in sunshine hours.
While global trends show a gradual increase in sunlight since the 1980s (known as global brightening), India’s severe pollution levels mean it is not fully benefiting from this positive shift. Addressing air pollution is therefore crucial not only for public health but also for unlocking India’s full potential in solar energy and safeguarding its agricultural sector.
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